Voss: More than Just a Bottle
Voss burst onto the premium bottled water scene more than 20 years ago, quickly becoming a symbol of minimalist elegance and luxury due to its distinctive cylindrical glass bottle. While its iconic packaging is a major draw, the brand's core offering is its water, sourced from a protected artesian aquifer in Southern Norway. This deep, unprocessed source is naturally filtered through layers of rock and sand, which gives the still version a low mineral content and a notably clean, pure taste. This low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) count is a primary point of differentiation.
The Source: Artesian vs. Aquifer vs. Spring
Where bottled water comes from is central to its flavor profile and perceived purity. Voss water is artesian, meaning it is drawn from a confined aquifer under pressure, protecting it from pollutants.
- Fiji: Sourced from an aquifer deep within the remote volcanic rock of the Fiji islands. The tropical environment and volcanic rock impart a distinct mineral profile, including silica, which gives it a smooth, soft mouthfeel.
- Evian: Originates from a spring high in the French Alps. The water undergoes a 15-year journey through glacial rock formations, acquiring a unique balance of minerals and electrolytes.
- Smartwater: This is not a naturally sourced mineral water. Smartwater is vapor-distilled water, meaning it has been boiled to purify it, and then electrolytes are added back for taste.
Taste Profile: Neutral vs. Mineral-Rich
The mineral content, measured by TDS, directly influences a water's taste. Voss's low TDS makes it very neutral, which some prefer for a clean, non-descript flavor.
- Voss (Still): Described as crisp, clean, and ultra-light with no aftertaste, making it a favorite for those who dislike the "flavor" of water or as a complement to fine dining.
- Fiji: Its higher mineral content, especially silica, results in a smooth, soft, and almost silky texture with a slight sweetness.
- Evian: Contains a more balanced mineral profile that some perceive as a fuller-bodied or slightly sweet taste, though it can be polarizing for some.
- Smartwater: The distillation and re-addition of electrolytes create a very neutral flavor profile similar to Voss, but without the natural source story.
The Role of Packaging and Sustainability
Packaging is a significant factor in bottled water's appeal and its environmental impact.
- Voss: Famous for its iconic cylindrical glass bottle, though it also offers plastic (PET) bottles. The glass is durable and endlessly recyclable, aligning with a premium image, though it is heavier and has a higher carbon footprint to transport. Voss has also made efforts toward sustainability, including using recycled PET (rPET).
- Fiji: Recognizable for its square-shaped plastic bottles, though it has faced scrutiny regarding the quality of its plastic bottles over time.
- Evian: Offers a mix of glass and plastic bottles, with ongoing efforts to use rPET and improve sustainability.
- Smartwater: Primarily sold in plastic bottles and is often criticized for its environmental impact despite its convenience.
Comparison Table: Voss vs. Leading Competitors
| Feature | Voss Still | Fiji | Smartwater | Evian |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Artesian Aquifer, Southern Norway | Artesian Aquifer, Fiji | Distilled City Source, USA | Spring, French Alps |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | Very Low (<45 ppm) | Higher (approx. 222 ppm) | Low (after distillation) | Balanced (approx. 345 ppm) |
| Taste | Crisp, clean, and neutral | Smooth, soft, and slightly sweet | Clean, with a mild flavor from added electrolytes | Balanced, mineral-rich |
| Packaging | Iconic cylindrical glass and recycled PET plastic | Square plastic bottle | Plastic bottle | Glass and plastic bottles |
| Primary Selling Point | Luxury branding and minimal taste | Exotic source and soft mouthfeel | Added electrolytes and vapor distillation | Alpine spring origin and mineral content |
Price and Perception
Voss positions itself as a premium, even luxury, brand, often commanding a higher price, particularly for its glass bottles. The price reflects the iconic branding and minimalist aesthetic, which appeals to a design-conscious audience. Competitors like Fiji and Evian also occupy a premium space but are often more accessible for everyday consumption. Smartwater is typically priced between everyday bottled water and the higher-end luxury brands. For some, the taste or health benefits of a high-end water are the priority, while for others, the price is simply paying for the bottle's aesthetic appeal.
The Final Verdict: Choosing Your Extraordinary
Ultimately, the best bottled water depends on individual preferences and priorities. If you value a minimalist aesthetic and an ultra-clean, neutral taste, Voss is an excellent choice. If a soft, mineral-rich mouthfeel and tropical origin appeal to you, Fiji may be a better fit. For a consistent, electrolyte-enhanced flavor, Smartwater offers a reliable option. And if you favor the tradition and unique mineral composition of an Alpine source, Evian is the classic choice. While the marketing and branding of these waters are significant, knowing the differences in their source, taste profile, and sustainability efforts empowers you to make an informed decision.
To learn more about the brand's sourcing and environmental commitment, visit the Voss Water Global website.
